International financial services group Provident Financial has created a three-year kitty of pound;120,000, and schools can apply for money through the YHA to book places for two-day residential trips in England and Wales.

Last year, Provident Financial sponsored three school groups on residential visits, and the venture’s success has led to the scheme’s expansion, says Judith Briddon, who is co-ordinating it for the YHA. “It was very successful and the kids really benefited from it. We had lots of positive comments from the schools involved and the kids sent us lots of really good pictures.”

YHA centres vary from old manor houses and converted barns in national parks to purpose-built city centre units. The organisation offers more than 60 residential packages and activities developed specifically for the schools’ market. It covers a range of curriculum areas suitable for key stages 2, 3, 4, A-level and GNVQ students.

A residential trip will typically cost between pound;1,000 and pound;1,500, and the typical grant available is worth pound;1,000. Around 40 schools are expected to benefit from the scheme each year, so the quicker you get in your application, the better your chances of success.

Schools not situated in action zones can still apply for financial assistance through the YHA Give Us a Break scheme, which provides grants to groups from disadvantaged areas.

Yolanda Brooks

Find out more

Provident Action for Creative Kids, contact Judith Briddon, PACK project co-ordinator, Marketing Department, PO Box 6028, Trevelyan House, Dimple Road, Matlock Derbyshire DE4 3XB 01629 592 638. judithbriddon@yha.org.uk. Call the same number for information on Give Us A Break or email: giveusabreak@yha.org.uk. For details of the YHA facilities on offer, visit www.yha.org.uk